Traditional karate refers to the older, original forms of karate, emphasising self-defence and practical application of techniques within a civilian context. It differs from modern sport karate, which prioritises competition and may not focus as heavily on self-defence effectiveness. Traditional karate training often includes a strong emphasis on kata (forms) and their practical applications (bunkai), as well as strength training and conditioning.
Our schools teach traditional karate for self-defence. We start with simple blocks and strikes against a single opponent to build confidence and ability. As students develop two or more opponents are introduced so that they can learn how to defend themselves against attacks from all directions.
Bilston Shotokan Karate School was formed in 2018 by Sensei Parkash and Sensei Kennedy (both 5th Dan), soon followed by Codsall, Wednesfield, and West Bromwich. All four schools have a mix of grades from beginners up to 2nd Dan Black Belts. Classes are run with children and adults together, making lessons suitable for individuals and families alike.
With our traditional training you will learn through the main disciplines of karate; Kihon, Kumite, and Kata. Learn self-defence skills, develop fitness and flexibility, become more confident, maintain self-esteem, and have a sense of achievement. You will also have fun and make new friends!
Gradings are held regularly throughout the year, where students take an exam to achieve their next grade. For many young students this promotes self-confidence and a sense of achievement and motivation.
Both children and adults are welcome to try our sessions with no obligation to continue.
Beginners’ classes are available every week for people of all ages from 6 to 65.
Mr Parkash and Mrs Kennedy have each trained in Shotokan Karate for over 25 years and have achieved 5th Dan with the Traditional International Shotokan Karate Association (TISKA) under the guidance of Shihan Gursharan Sahota, 8th Dan. They regularly train at various TISKA schools in the Midlands, including Northampton, Dunstable, Kettering and Daventry.
Mr Parkash – 07508 053918
Mrs Kennedy – 07415 458124
Gusharan Sahota
Gursharan Sahota was born in Kenya, East Africa but moved to the UK at the age of 12. He took up Karate at the age of 14 in the local Bedford club and was awarded black belt 1st dan (shodan) four years later.
Now a 9th Dan, Gursharan has competed in a multitude of kata and kumite events, many at national and international level. But the most significant event in his career was the visit he made in 1984 to Japan. There, he fulfilled a great ambition by training in a Japanese dojo under the instruction of Sensei Hirokazu Kanazawa.
This experience proved to be a turning point for Gursharan. On his return to England, he realised the trip had been the inspiration he needed to dedicate his future to training and teaching karate as a way of life.
Gursharan’s first club was opened in Luton/Dunstable in 1981 and this is now the association’s hombu (HQ). Having been a teacher of the art for many years, he formed his own association in 1993 – TISKA (The Traditional International Shotokan Karate Association) which is now one of the biggest associations in the UK.
Gursharan’s love of karate has never diminished. He still teaches over 35 classes a week in the UK and regularly takes master classes internationally. All in all, he has brought hundreds of students of all ages up to black belt standard and beyond.
He is also involved in charity work, helping to subsidise trips for surgeons to third world countries to operate on underprivileged children. He has, for many years, funded many projects in India, and is at present helping to fund the building of a new school.
Gursharan lives in Buckinghamshire and is happily married with a son and daughter who already show signs of following in their daddy’s footsteps.
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